Entertainment in South Korea: Stroll Along the Lanes For An Enigmatic Vacation

The lively and distinctive culture of South Korea does not receive the same international attention as that of its former conqueror Japan. But excluding South Korea from your Asian adventure would be a disservice to you. South Korea is a country of delicious food, ancient temples, quirky KPop, breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, quirky festivals and much more. The entertainment options in South Korea is going to be a long list, let's have a look at the best ones.

South Korea’s Entertainment Options for Leisure and Fun

K-pop, Korean cinema, and kimchi are all popular in this country. South Korea is one of the world's most culturally rich countries. The extraordinary rise of the Korean Wave, called "Hallyu," has been witnessed around the world during the last decade. South Korean culture, entertainment, and, most notably, music are fast gaining international recognition and appreciation. K-beauty has also become a popular topic of conversation in the home. So, let's talk about what makes the South Korean Wave so popular.

Famous K-Pop Artists and Bands in South Korea

What are you waiting for if you haven't already jumped on board with Korean pop music? It's catchy, fun, and full of energy, so what are you waiting for? K-pop has become a global sensation, with its toe-tapping techno beats, crazy-colorful aesthetic, trend-setting apparel, and superbly choreographed videos, and its stars are going global (hello BTS with your new album drop, we see you). While the South Korean entertainment business has long been successful, it has risen to unprecedented heights in recent years. Korean entertainment is at the top of its game, whether it's thanks to Parasite's historic Best Picture Oscar win or bands like BTS and Blackpink taking the globe by storm.

1. BTS

This seven-piece boy band has taken the world by storm and is undoubtedly K-biggest pop's name. BTS has sold out stadium gigs in the United States and the United Kingdom, has two No. 1 albums in the United States, has 16 million monthly Spotify listeners, has sold 16 million albums (Map of Soul is the best-selling album in Korean history), and was the best-selling act to debut in the decade. BTS was the second best-selling artist of 2018 (behind Drake), as well as the only non-English speaking artist to join the chart, according to the IFPI's Global Artist Chart. Suga, RM, and J-hope are rappers, whereas Jimin, V, Jin, and Jungkook are vocalists.

BTS released 'Dynamite,' their first song entirely in English, in August 2020, and it quickly rose to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, where it remained for three weeks. It was BTS's first No. 1 hit in the United States, and it made them the first all-South Korean act to reach the top of the Billboard Hot 100.

2. Black Pink

Black Pink is another immensely successful Seoul-born girl group, with members Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. When their single Ddu-Du Ddu-Du was streamed over a billion times on YouTube in November 2019, they became the first K-pop band to join the 'billion views club.' Psy's Gangnam Style (remember that?) is the only other Korean act to enter the club. Blackpink also recently wrapped up their In Your Area tour, which saw them perform in front of a total of 205,000 fans. There are also rumours that the quartet may work on Lady Gaga's upcoming album, although nothing has been verified as of yet.

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Korea That Presents A Perfect Blend of History, Culture & Nature

3. Psy

In 2012, Park Jae-sang, better known as Psy, took his "Gangnam Style" and K-pop to a global audience. After studying Berklee College of Music in Boston, he returned to South Korea. It's unclear whether he received a diploma, but that didn't stop him from pursuing a music career. Psy From The Psycho World!, his debut album, was released in 2001. His techno/rap groovy dance style drew a lot of attention, but it wasn't a big smash right away.

He went on to release four more albums, one of which featured the popular song "Champion," which was released during the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup. Psy joined YG Entertainment after completing his military service. He released the track "Gangnam Style" in 2012. His wacky horse dance went viral around the world, with over 1.8 billion views on YouTube. Psy was able to collaborate with Hollywood icons thanks to "Gangnam Style." Psy was also asked to play at New Year's Eve celebrations in China. He was the first non-Chinese performer in the annual all-Chinese event. In 2015, Psy debuted his new popular song "Daddy."

4. EXO

EXO has four No. 1 albums on Billboard's World Albums chart, making them yet another immensely popular K-pop group with awards to match. The group's song is a bright, joyful combination of rap, hip-hop, R&B, and rock that they performed during the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang.

As aforementioned EXO is a South Korean-Chinese boy band who debuted in 2012 after being created by SM Entertainment in 2011. Xiumin, Suho, Lay, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, D.O., Kai, and Sehun are among the group's nine members. EXO's fame in Korea is comparable to BTS', and the two groups are genuinely regarded rivals by their respective fan bases. Tempo, Love Shots, Power, Ko Ko Bop, and Power are just a few of EXO's most popular songs.

5. Boa

SM Entertainment chose BoA, born Kwon Bo Ah, when she was 11 years old. She went to an audition with her brother and was discovered by Lee Soo-Man, the founder of SM Entertainment. At the age of 13, BoA published her first album, ID: Peace B. She was then moved to live in Japan, where she got fully immersed in the language. Listen To My Heart, BoA's first Japanese album, made her the first Korean to debut at the top of the Oricon chart. In 2009, she released the all-English album BoA, and in 2013, she landed her first Hollywood starring role in the film Make Your Move. BoA is a K-pop success storey who has recently gained international recognition.

Top Spas In South Korea

A Jjimjilbang (Spa) is a traditional bathhouse that is an important component of Korean culture; these heated rooms are also referred to as a Korean Spa. Locals frequently hang here, soak, and participate in different beauty-related routines and services. A basic spa provides a conventional experience with various sorts of baths and saunas, whereas contemporary spas include nail bars, restaurants, movie rooms, and swimming pools.

1. Dragon Hill Spa

One of the most well-known Korean saunas is Dragon Hill Spa. It is located in Seoul and has been featured in various Korean dramas. The fact that the Dragon Hill Spa is open 24 hours a day is one of its best features. You can remain the entire night if you want to truly unwind. Additionally, if you are travelling on a budget, you can save money on your hotel cost. It has eight floors of different spa zones, each focusing on different aspects of your body.

You may also partake in sports such as screen golf, watch a movie or K dramas, or simply rest in one of their rooftop gardens! The Dragon Hill, as one of Korea's largest and best-equipped spas, not only attracts international guests, but it's also a popular hangout spot for locals on weekends. It provides travellers with the ideal opportunity to "soak up" Korean culture! The Dragon Hill Spa is a short walk from Yongsan Station exit 1 and is located in Yongsan.

Location - 40 Hangang-daero 21na-gil, Hangangno 3(sam)-ga, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Timings - Monday to Sunday - Open 24 hours

2. Banyan Tree Spa

The Banyan Tree Hotel & Spa is ideal for those who are stressed or tired. Fresh facials, peaceful massages, and wonderful packages, as well as a wide choice of body scrubs and rain showers, are all available. A foot soak and 30 minutes of relaxation are included in all treatments. The Banyan Tree sauna (separate from the spa) is perhaps the greatest in Seoul and should not be missed by hotel guests and members.

Location - 60 Jangchungdan-ro, Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, South Korea

Timings - Monday to Sunday - Open 24 hours

3. The Spa in Garden 5

On the outskirts of Seoul, there is a spanking new and big Jjimjilbang. It's on the tenth floor of the brand-new Garden 5 shopping centre. As a result, Spa in Garden 5 is a cutting-edge Korean spa with all of the amenities of a traditional Jjimjilbang as well as a slew of modern conveniences. A library, atopy (skin-focused) treatment facilities, beautifully designed lounge areas, movie screening rooms (in English and Korean), an arcade, and a variety of yoga courses are all available. While you're relaxing in the spa, you can grab a bite to eat in the lounge areas or stroll up to the rooftop. In addition, the in-house restaurants serve delectable Korean cuisine and treats such as Shikhye, a traditional Korean drink. Jangji Station is a 15-minute walk from the spa.

Location - Floor 5, 66 Chungmin-ro, Munjeong-dong, Songpa-gu, South Korea

Timings - Monday to Sunday - From 10: 30 AM to 10: 00 PM

4. LK Spa in Seoul’s Shopping District

This facility takes relaxation to new heights! The LK Spa is one of Seoul's largest Jjimjilbangs, with locations in Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, two of the city's busiest shopping districts. It's a two-story spa with an invitingly bright and spotless atmosphere. A cleansing service is something we recommend. It will help you get rid of all your worries as well as your dull, dry skin.

A hot scented oil massage will be provided by the scrub manager as an added bonus! In addition, the LK spa has three types of sauna rooms: Maifanshi, Loess, and Fire, with temperatures ranging from 50 to 100 degrees Celsius. These hot springs are also loaded with soothing ginseng, jasmine, and even red wine flavours, which help to erase any weariness from a successful shopping excursion! Exit 7 of Euljiro 3-ga Station is only a 2-minute walk away.

Location - 31 Eulji-ro, Euljiro 3(sam)-ga, Jung-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Timings - Visitors can consult the local authority for the timings

5. Traditional Oriental Forest Land

This is Seoul's sole authentic Jjimjilbang. It is easily accessible by any mode of transportation because it is located in Seoul city at the center-right base of the Ansan Mountain. Traditional Oriental Forest's main feature is the outdoor charcoal burning kilns, which are no longer found in other Seoul bathhouses. Furthermore, they heat the sauna by burning pinewood in accordance with traditional ways. They also have Seoul's only authentic traditional sauna, Hanjeungmak.

Finally, this location will ensure that your mind, body, and soul are rejuvenated. Furthermore, they provide a salt-themed resting space for females called the salt chamber. It's utilised for therapeutic purposes and comes in the form of heated salt. You also don't have to be concerned about your children because they offer a children's play area.

Location - 75-7 Bongwonsa-gil, Bongwon-dong, Seodaemun-gu, South Korea

Timings - Open 24 hours

Top Movie Theaters in South Korea

Koreans enjoy going to the movies. People all over the world like going to the movies to witness the latest blockbuster or the drama in which their favourite actor is starring. Who doesn't enjoy the rush of viewing a movie on a screen much larger than their home television, complete with powerful sound effects?

1. Lotte Cinema

If you're looking for the world's largest screen, you've come to the right place. That's right, it's not only the biggest screen in Korea...the it's biggest screen in the entire planet. It's called the Super Plex G and it's located at Lotte World Tower in Jamsil. Lotte Cinema features the world's largest screen, measuring 34 x 13.8m, according to Guinness World Records. The screen has 622 seats, which is the most available for a screen. The Super Plex G resembles a two-story opera theatre in appearance.

The theatre will be located in South Korea's tallest structure, the World Tower, which will have 123 floors and a height of 555 metres. The screen is not only large, but it is also curved and inclined, allowing viewers to enjoy the same amount of brightness when viewing movies regardless of where they are situated in the theatre.

2. 4-D Theaters

A few CGV cinemas include 4-D movie theatres, making watching the newest blockbuster even more enjoyable than you could have dreamed. You'll be given glasses for the best viewing of the movie, just like you would for a 3-D movie; however, the difference between 3-D and 4-D is that in 4-D, the movie watcher is even more engaged in the movie because the seats move and shake, with wind, water, and other effects tease the watchers during the most exciting parts of the movie. Although this may not be everyone's favoured method of watching a film, it is something that everyone should attempt at least once.

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3. Cine de Chef

Cine du Chef takes things a step farther than the Gold Class movie theatre. They actually offer two seating areas, one with nice sofas for two people to share and the other with elegant chairs for individuals who prefer it whether they are watching the movie alone or not. That's fantastic! But that's not the only way Cine de Chef is attempting to outshine Gold Class; at Cine de Chef, you can also sample some delectable Western-style cuisine! Sure, it's nice to get a box of popcorn, a soda, and a chilli cheese hot dog on the side every now and again, but there are times when you want to go all out, and there's no better way to do so than by visiting Cine de Chef.

4. Beats by Dr. Dres Theater

While many of these great movie theatres in Seoul appear to appeal mostly to couples, there are also interesting options for singles! Beats by Dr. Dre, which is located in CGV Cheongdam Cine City, is one of these options. You simply purchase a ticket for a showing in this cinema, enter and take a seat, put on the highly coveted pair of headphones, and enjoy the film without having to listen to that loud pair of people talking behind you or that person next to you loudly chomping on their popcorn the entire time. It'll feel nearly as though you're the only one in the cinema.

5. Tempur Cinema

There are two ways to receive the Cine de Chef experience right now. One has previously been mentioned, and the other will be presented immediately. You may also fill your tummy with deliciousness at Tempur Cinema with the spectacular foods supplied by Cine de Chef, but what makes Tempur Cinema truly special is that it is the world's first reclining bed cinema. That's right, you don't have to sit up straight to see a movie at this theatre; instead, you can lie down comfortably.

Top Ways to Enjoy the Nightlife in South Korea

South Koreans may work and study for some of the world's longest hours, but they also know how to have fun. As a result, the country has one of Asia's most vibrant nightlife scenes, making it a great place to visit for party animals and night owls...if they can keep up with the locals, that is. So put on your party shoes and grab a bottle of soju as we take you around the city's nightlife.

1. Go To The Bars

The next round, which is usually at a bar, is usually focused on drinks. Seoul has a bar for everyone, whether you're a cocktail expert, a craft beer fanatic, a live music junkie, or just want to get wasted on a budget. The'self-bar,' where you may choose your own beer from one of the several coolers and pay when you leave, is a Korean favourite. Expect a few Seoul Trains, as well as some incredible drinking methods and wild drinking games (an epic, domino-like series of bomb shots).

Top bars -

• Once in a Blue Moon
• Korea Beer Exchange
• WooBar
• Fundoori
• Southside Parlor
• Cheeky Kiwi Bar
• Bulldog Pub
• Maloney's Pub & Grill

2. Shop At The Night Markets

Do you enjoy going shopping? Do you prefer to shop in the dead of night? Then you should be aware that South Korea has a number of night markets. Many items have come from South Korea, including serial operas, popular and catchy music, and delectably unusual cuisine. They have one of the world's most lively cultures, and as a result, they attract millions of tourists each year, making South Korea one of the world's most visited countries. Tourists flock to this East Asian jewel for a variety of reasons, including its fascinating culture and commerce. You'll never run out of shopping options with classic retail centres, shopping alleyways, and night markets.

Top Night Markets -

• Dongdaemun Night Market
• Namdaemun Night Market
• Yeouido World Night Market
• Myeongdong Night Market

3. Relax at the Clubs and Lounges

Around the world, clubs are most similar to nightclubs. They are mainly found in party districts, such as Itaewon. Guests can dance to loud music on a dance floor in a club. DJs may strut their stuff on stage while keeping the crowd hyped. Tables and rooms are available, and guests can use them if they purchase pricey liquor by the bottle. Patrons can drink and dance on the dance floor, which is where much of the socialising takes place. Most clubs do not have an upper age limit after the age of 19. Younger crowds in their early twenties frequent Hongdae clubs. Clubs in Gangnam and Itaewon are popular among people in their late twenties and early thirties. Men pay a higher entrance fee in most clubs, and the best party hours are from 1 am to 4 am.

Top Clubs and Lounges -

• GSM Terrace
• Woodstock Itaewon Bar
• Mix & Malt
• Le Chamber
• OK Pong Pong
• Casa Habano Busan

4. Cha, Cha, Cha

Most people in the globe like to drink heavily on weekends, but Koreans can party almost every night of the week. They tend to party in rounds, or ‘cha.' They eat and carouse in a variety of locales till the wee hours of the morning. In most cases, a night out entails two or three cha, but on rare occasions, it can extend to a fifth. Each round is held in a different sort of establishment. The following are a few of the most common routes that people take to get there.

• Goji jib
• Bars
• Hofs
• Clubs
• Noraebang

Top barbeque restaurants -

• Saebyukjib
• Maple Tree House Itaewon
• Byeokje Galbi
• Wangbijib
• WooSung Galbi
• Baetjang
• Seocho Myeonok
• Yang Good BBQ

5. Hunting Pubs / Pocha

Singles bars are places where people can meet new individuals while drinking. Without requiring waiter help, patrons can approach other tables in person and suggest drinking together. Some hunting pubs are more technologically savvy, with tablet computers available. Guests can transmit messages to a 'target' table using these devices. Guests are welcome to join the table for a drink if the other patrons agree. People in their early to mid-twenties frequent hunting pubs. On weekends, the streets of party zones like Gangnam and Hongdae are filled with individuals on the lookout.

Top Gaming and Entertainment Hubs in South Korea

Korea is a must-see country for tourists interested in a unique culture, amazing food, and, of course, K-pop, whether you reside in Korea or have finally booked a backpacking journey around Asia. Many quirky attractions are better recognised by locals and are not commonly featured on prominent tourist sites, despite the fact that they have a lot to offer.

1. Lotte World

Lotte World would be absent from any ranking of the finest gaming arcades in Seoul. An gigantic arcade is located within the world's largest indoor theme park. Although this arcade isn't very unique, there are plenty of games to play, and its placement within Lotte World makes it worthwhile to visit. You can go on rides and shop while you're there. The SBS Theme Studio is located on the second floor of Lotte and is where you can watch KIGL (Korean Internet Game League) and other internet gaming contests. It's definitely worth a look.

Location - 240 Olympic-ro, Jamsil-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Timings -

• Monday to Thursday - From 9: 30 AM to 10: 00 PM
• Friday and Saturday - From 9: 30 AM to 11: 00 PM
• Closed on Sunday

2. Seoul Escape Rooms

While the escape room experience isn't precisely playable on your PS4, it is a fascinating opportunity to think about strategy and teamwork in the same way you would in League. Escape rooms are becoming increasingly popular around the world, and Seoul is no exception. The premise varies depending on the escape room theme, but you and a group of friends or strangers are locked in a room and must solve puzzles and follow clues to escape within the time limit. You'll want to experience all 17 rooms since they're a great mix of mystery, drama, and stress. You'll just have to go to Seoul and sample one for yourself because many of the rooms are kept hidden.

3. VR Park

In Yeongdeungpo Times Square, CGV and VR developers Barunson have collaborated to deliver you an incredible VR game experience. Without actually travelling there, you can spend hours on rollercoasters, playing the drums, and shooting a bow and arrow. What appears to be a theatre with seats and controls transforms into an immersive experience for people of all ages.

4. Video Game Alley

The alley is actually a basement in Yongsan stuffed to the brim with every form of video game imaginable, despite the fact that it sounds rather self-explanatory. They have a lot of unique games that are exclusively sold in Asia, so you can find both new and old favourites there. Any gamer looking to grow their collection should pay a visit to this location.

5. Bang

Bang, which translates to "rooms" in Korean, are exactly that: rooms. Depending on the sort of bang you visit, these rooms provide a range of activities. PC Bang is the most popular, with fast internet, tonnes of plush chairs, and huge screen TVs to game away the day or night. Cartoon Bang and PlayStation Bang are two other alternatives where you can read comic books or play FIFA with your buddies.

South Korea is a beautiful nation. If you go round and about Asia, although JApan and China may seem to be more attractive, but this nations holds the power to astound you to another level. The entertainment options in South Korea, as mentioned in the above article is a long list and can go on and on. So, what are you waiting for then? Plan a trip to South Korea and have a surreak vacation.

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